Complications of translaryngeal intubation

The human larynx is complex and serves multiple functions. Unfortunately, endotracheal tubes do not reproduce all these functions. They serve well as air passages but cannot do so without damaging the mucosa of the posterior larynx. It appears that complications secondary to airway problems in the operating room are decreasing as the use of oximetry and capnometry becomes routine. It is hoped that this reduction in complications will carry over into the chronic care setting as such monitoring becomes the standard after intubations. Compared with malposition of the tube, most of the other complications of intubation are minor. However, knowledge of the various complications can ensure avoidance of many and early detection and correction of others.